Modified Administrative Order – Declaration of Judicial Emergency
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Overview
This document is a Modified Administrative Order issued by the Court of Common Pleas in Blair County, Pennsylvania (24th Judicial District). It was signed on January 7, 2021, by Presiding Judge Elizabeth A. Doyle. The order modifies previous emergency declarations to address the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, specifically extending certain suspensions of court rules and procedures through April 30, 2021.
Key Decisions & Directives
Suspension of Criminal Procedure Rules
- Rule 600 Suspension: The Pennsylvania Rule of Criminal Procedure 600 (which mandates speedy trials) is suspended from November 25, 2020, through February 23, 2021.
- Audio/Visual Technology: Rules prohibiting the use of audio/visual advanced communication technology are suspended from the date of this order through April 30, 2021. This allows judges to conduct hearings remotely.
Jury Trials
- January 2021 Selections: Criminal jury selection scheduled for January 2021 is canceled.
- February 2021 Trials: Criminal jury trials scheduled for February 8–19, 2021, are canceled.
Court Operations & Safety
To ensure the safety of court personnel, users, and the public, District Court Judges are directed to conduct hearings (including preliminary hearings) using the following methods whenever possible:
- Remote Technology: Use of BlueJeans, Zoom, telephone, and other audio/visual devices.
- Staggered Scheduling: Court appearance times are to be staggered to reduce contact.
- Limited Gatherings: Meetings and conferences are limited to essential participants or conducted via technology.
Preliminary Hearings Timeline
- Current Status: Preliminary hearings for both incarcerated and non-incarcerated persons may be held or waived using advanced communication technology.
- Future Mandate: Beginning no later than February 16, 2021, all preliminary hearings for criminal cases must be held within the timeframe mandated by Pennsylvania Rule of Criminal Procedure 540.
Signatory
- Elizabeth A. Doyle, P. J. (Presiding Judge)